The Small Burden

A sharp jab, a tiny pain pulls me back,

a sliver of wood lodged under my skin,

its presence demands attention, a cruel reminder,

in the rush of life, of moments misplaced.

I pause to assess the hurt, a focus refined,

the world shrinks down to this pinpoint of real,

every distraction fades as I pull at the thread,

a battle between caution and the urge to ignore,

this little burden nestled in the flesh,

a gentle nudge to be present, to feel.